What Is a Pediatric Orthopedist?

A pediatric orthopedist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating musculoskeletal problems in children, including deformed limbs and joints, broken bones, bone infections and limping. Most pediatric orthopedists see children up to 18 years of age.

Education

• Pediatric orthopedists receive about three years more education and training than a regular M.D. A pediatric orthopedist graduates from medical school, completes a residency in orthopedics and undergoes additional training to specialize in pediatric orthopedics.

Benefits

• Pediatric orthopedists know how to examine children, who sometimes can't articulate their symptoms or won't respond to traditional exam techniques.

Newborns

• Some pediatric orthopedists specialize in treating newborns with conditions like spina bifida, in which the spine doesn't completely close during development.

Special Skills

• Pediatric orthopedists understand how problems like scoliosis and clubfoot impact growing bones and use specialized treatment techniques.

Fun Fact

• Most pediatric orthopedists decorate their offices with children in mind and have child-size equipment that isn't as intimidating to children.